U.S. patent application number 15/880356 was filed with the patent office on 2019-05-02 for flexible display unit and mobile terminal having the same.
This patent application is currently assigned to LG ELECTRONICS INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is LG ELECTRONICS INC.. Invention is credited to Seyong KIM, Sunghan KIM, Hyungmo KOO, Minchul LEE, Seunggeun LIM.
Application Number | 20190132947 15/880356 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 66243489 |
Filed Date | 2019-05-02 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190132947 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
KOO; Hyungmo ; et
al. |
May 2, 2019 |
FLEXIBLE DISPLAY UNIT AND MOBILE TERMINAL HAVING THE SAME
Abstract
A flexible display unit is disclosed including a flexible
display, and a flexible frame coupled to the flexible display, the
flexible frame including a first rigid portion, a second rigid
portion, and a flexible portion located between the first and
second rigid portions and configured to permit the frame to be
bent, the flexible portion including a first region including a
first plurality of holes having a first size, and a second region
including a second plurality of holes having a second size, wherein
the first size is greater than the second size, the first region is
positioned closer to a center axis of the flexible frame than the
second region, and an area of the first plurality of holes within a
portion of the first region is greater than an area of the second
plurality of holes within a portion of the second region having the
same area.
Inventors: |
KOO; Hyungmo; (Seoul,
KR) ; KIM; Seyong; (Seoul, KR) ; LEE;
Minchul; (Seoul, KR) ; LIM; Seunggeun; (Seoul,
KR) ; KIM; Sunghan; (Seoul, KR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LG ELECTRONICS INC. |
Seoul |
|
KR |
|
|
Assignee: |
LG ELECTRONICS INC.
Seoul
KR
|
Family ID: |
66243489 |
Appl. No.: |
15/880356 |
Filed: |
January 25, 2018 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 1/1652 20130101;
H05K 5/0017 20130101; G02F 1/133305 20130101; H04M 1/0268 20130101;
H05K 1/0306 20130101; H04M 1/0216 20130101; G09F 9/301 20130101;
H05K 1/0281 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H05K 1/02 20060101
H05K001/02; H05K 5/00 20060101 H05K005/00; H05K 1/03 20060101
H05K001/03 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 1, 2017 |
KR |
10-2017-0144870 |
Claims
1. A flexible electronic device comprising: a flexible display; and
a flexible frame coupled to a rear of the flexible display, the
flexible frame comprising: a first rigid portion; a second rigid
portion; and a flexible portion located between the first rigid
portion and the second rigid portion and configured to permit the
frame to be bent, the flexible portion comprising: a first region
comprising a first plurality of holes having a first size and
arranged in a first pattern; and second regions each comprising a
second plurality of holes having a second size and arranged in a
second pattern, wherein the first size is greater than the second
size and the first plurality of holes and the second plurality of
holes are shaped to be elongated along a same direction, wherein a
center axis of the flexible frame is positioned in the first
region, wherein the second regions are correspondingly arranged at
opposite sides of the first region in a direction away from the
center axis, wherein an area of the first plurality of holes within
a portion of the first region having a particular area is greater
than an area of the second plurality of holes within a portion of
each of the second regions having the same particular area, and
wherein the flexible display is configured to bend according to a
bending of the flexible frame about the center axis.
2. The flexible electronic device of claim 1, wherein: the flexible
portion further comprises a third region located between the first
region and each of the second regions; the third region comprises a
third plurality of holes wherein a size of the third plurality of
holes increases in a direction from each of the second regions to
the first region.
3. The flexible electronic device of claim 1, wherein: the flexible
portion further comprises a third region located between the first
region and each of the second regions; the third region comprises a
third plurality of holes wherein a distance between each of the
third plurality of holes decreases in a direction from each of the
second regions to the first region.
4. The flexible electronic device of claim 1, wherein the first
region has a higher degree of flexibility than the second
regions.
5. The flexible electronic device of claim 1, wherein the flexible
frame comprises a titanium material.
6. The flexible electronic device of claim 1, wherein a distance
between each of the first plurality of holes is smaller than a
distance between each of the second plurality of holes.
7. The flexible electronic device of claim 1, wherein: a first
ratio corresponds to a ratio of an area of holes within the first
region to an area of the flexible frame within the first region; a
second ratio corresponds to a ratio of an area of holes within each
of the second regions to an area of the flexible frame within each
of the second regions; and the first ratio is larger than the
second ratio.
8. The flexible electronic device of claim 1, wherein: the first
pattern comprises a first row of holes and an adjacent second row
of holes and the holes of the second row are offset with respect to
the holes of the first row; the second pattern comprises a third
row of holes and an adjacent fourth row of holes and the holes of
the third row are offset with respect to the holes of the fourth
row.
9. The flexible electronic device of claim 8, wherein the first
pattern is repeated in the first region and the second pattern is
repeated in each of the second regions.
10. The flexible electronic device of claim 8, wherein: a size of
the holes of the first row is larger than a size of the holes of
the third row; and a size of the holes of the second row is larger
than a size of the holes of the fourth row.
11. The flexible electronic device of claim 8, wherein: the
flexible portion further comprises a third region located between
each of the second regions and the first region; the third region
comprises a third plurality of holes arranged in a third pattern;
the third pattern comprises a fifth row of holes and an adjacent
sixth row of holes; and a size of the holes of the fifth row is
smaller than a size of the holes of the sixth row.
12. The flexible electronic device of claim 11, wherein the sixth
row of holes is positioned closer to the first region than the
fifth row of holes.
13. The flexible electronic device of claim 1, wherein the first
plurality of holes and the second plurality of holes are shaped as
elongated openings.
14. The flexible electronic device of claim 13, wherein the
elongated openings of the first plurality of holes and the second
plurality of holes are parallel.
15. The flexible electronic device of claim 14, wherein: the
flexible portion further comprises a third region located between
the first region and each of the second regions; and the third
region comprises a third plurality of holes shaped as elongated
openings parallel to the elongated openings of first plurality of
holes and the second plurality of holes.
16. The flexible electronic device of claim 1, wherein the flexible
portion is symmetrical about the first region.
17. The flexible electronic device of claim 1, wherein the
electronic device is configured to be moved between a first open
position wherein the display is not folded and a second closed
position wherein the display is folded.
18. A flexible electronic device comprising: a flexible display;
and a flexible frame coupled to a rear of the flexible display, the
flexible frame comprising: a first rigid portion; a second rigid
portion; and a flexible portion located between the first rigid
portion and the second rigid portion and configured to permit the
frame to be bent, the flexible portion comprising: a first region
comprising a first plurality of holes arranged in a first pattern;
and second regions each comprising a second plurality of holes
arranged in a second pattern, wherein the first plurality of holes
and the second plurality of holes are shaped to be elongated along
a same direction, wherein the first pattern and second pattern are
different such that the first region has a higher degree of
flexibility than the second regions, wherein a center axis of the
flexible frame is positioned in the first region, and wherein the
second regions are correspondingly arranged at opposite sides of
the first region in a direction away from the center axis.
19. The flexible electronic device of claim 18, wherein the first
plurality of holes are larger than the second plurality of
holes.
20. The flexible electronic device of claim 18, wherein a distance
between each of the first plurality of holes is smaller than a
distance between each of the second plurality of holes.
21. The flexible electronic device of claim 18, wherein: the
flexible portion further comprises a third region located between
the first region and each of the second regions; the third region
comprises a third plurality of holes wherein a size of the third
plurality of holes increases or a distance between each of the
third plurality of holes decreases in a direction from each of the
second regions to the first region.
22. A flexible electronic device comprising: a flexible display;
and a flexible frame coupled to a rear of the flexible display, the
flexible frame comprising: a first rigid portion; a second rigid
portion; and a flexible portion located between a first rigid
portion and a second rigid portion and configured to permit the
frame to be bent, the flexible portion comprising: a central
flexible portion comprising a first plurality of holes arranged in
a first pattern; two outer flexible portions positioned on opposite
sides of the central flexible portion each comprising a second
plurality of holes arranged in a second pattern; and two
intermediate flexible portions positioned on opposite sides of the
central flexible portion between the central flexible portion and
corresponding outer flexible portions, wherein each of the two
intermediate flexible portions comprise a third plurality of holes,
wherein the first pattern and second pattern are different such
that the central flexible portion has a higher degree of
flexibility than the two outer flexible portions wherein the first
plurality of holes and the second plurality of holes are shaped to
be elongated along a same direction, wherein a center axis of the
flexible frame is positioned in the central flexible portion, and
wherein the outer flexible portions are correspondingly arranged at
opposite sides of the central flexible portion in a direction away
from the center axis.
23. The flexible electronic device of claim 22, wherein the first,
second, and third pluralities of holes are shaped as elongated
openings arranged parallel to each other.
24. The flexible electronic device of claim 23, wherein a length of
each of the first plurality of holes is longer than a length of
each of the second plurality of holes.
25. The flexible electronic device of claim 24, wherein a distance
between each of the first plurality of holes is smaller than a
distance between each of the second plurality of holes.
26. The flexible electronic device of claim 25, wherein a length of
each of the third plurality of holes increases or a distance
between each of the third plurality of holes decreases in a
direction from one of the outer flexible portions to the central
flexible portion.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Pursuant to 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 119(a), this application claims
the benefit of earlier filing date and right of priority to Korean
Application No. 10-2017-0144870, filed on Nov. 1, 2017, the
contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in
its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present disclosure relates to a flexible display unit
configured to be elastically deformable between a flat state and a
bent state at a maximum curvature, and a mobile terminal having the
same.
2. Description of the Related Art
[0003] A portable electronic device (hereinafter, mobile terminal)
such as a communication terminal, a multimedia device, a portable
computer, a game machine, and a photographing apparatus has a
display for displaying image information. The mobile terminal may
have a folding structure that can be folded to a smaller size for
convenience of carrying. In this type of mobile terminal, two
bodies are connected by a folding structure (for example, a hinge
portion).
[0004] Displays in the related art have a non-foldable structure,
and thus a structure in which a display is disposed over two whole
bodies that are foldably connected to each other cannot be
implemented. Therefore, a substantially large screen cannot be
applied to a mobile terminal with a folding structure.
[0005] However, in recent years, as a flexible display capable of
bending has been developed, research has been carried out to apply
a flexible display to a mobile terminal having a folding structure.
In this case, a flexible display may be disposed over two whole
bodies across a folding structure, thereby implementing a large
screen. However, even with a flexible display capable of bending,
the flexible display itself may be broken when it is completely
bent (i.e., bent angularly), and thus a structure capable of
limiting a curvature radius of the flexible display when folding
the mobile terminal is required.
[0006] In order to allow the flexible display to be bent at a
preset curvature, a structure in which a flexible frame is
laminated with a flexible display is used. However, flexible frames
developed until now has only a structure in which one portion
thereof can be curved at a specific curvature, but a structure in
which two adjacent portions are connected smoothly while being
configured to allow bending at different maximum curvatures has not
been proposed.
[0007] In particular, when the two adjacent portions have different
curvatures, a breakage of the flexible display may occur due to a
change in curvature at the boundary. Therefore, studies on a
flexible frame capable of smoothly connecting two adjacent portions
having different curvatures have been carried out.
[0008] On the other hand, stainless steel is generally used as the
flexible frame. However, stainless steel is not an optimal material
from the viewpoint of restoration because the yield strain is not
so large. In particular, in the case of a flexible frame made of
stainless steel, when the flexible display is bent, it may not be
flattened again, thereby causing a problem in which a surface of
the flexible display undulates like a wave.
[0009] In addition, when an impact is applied to the flexible
display in case where the flexible frame is formed of a metal
material, the flexible frame may not absorb the impact, thereby
causing a problem in which the flexible display is damaged.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] A first object of the present disclosure is to provide a
flexible frame laminated with a flexible display to bend two
adjacent portions of the flexible display at different maximum
curvatures in accordance with shape deformation.
[0011] A second object of the present disclosure is to provide a
design method capable of adjusting a degree of bending and a
repulsive force of the flexible frame.
[0012] A third object of the present disclosure is to provide a
flexible frame capable of smoothly connecting two adjacent portions
having different curvatures of a flexible display.
[0013] A fourth object of the present disclosure is to provide a
flexible frame capable of restoring a flexible display to a flat
state even when the bending and restoration of the flexible display
are repeated, thereby allowing the flexible display to be flattened
all the time.
[0014] A fifth object of the present disclosure is to provide a
laminated structure of a flexible display and a flexible frame
capable of absorbing an impact applied to the flexible display.
[0015] In order to accomplish the first object of the present
disclosure, a flexible frame may be provided with a flexible
region, and the flexible region may include a first flexible
portion having first holes formed repeatedly and bendable up to a
state having a maximum first curvature; and a second flexible
portion having second holes formed repeatedly in parallel to the
first holes, and bendable up to a state having a maximum second
curvature, wherein a total area occupied by the first holes per
unit area in the first flexible portion is larger than a total area
occupied by the second holes per unit area in the second flexible
portion, so that the first curvature is larger than the second
curvature.
[0016] The first holes may be repeatedly formed along a widthwise
direction and a lengthwise direction of the flexible region which
intersect with each other, wherein the second holes are repeatedly
formed along the widthwise direction and the lengthwise direction
of the flexible region which intersect each other.
[0017] The first holes may be arranged in a zigzag form while
partially overlapping each other along the lengthwise direction of
the flexible region, wherein the second holes are arranged in a
zigzag form while partially overlapping each other along the
lengthwise direction of the flexible region.
[0018] A length of each overlapped portion of the first holes may
be longer than a length of each overlapped portion of the second
holes.
[0019] The first holes and the second holes respectively may
include a plurality of holes having the same size and spaced apart
from one another at preset intervals.
[0020] The first holes and the second holes may further include
respectively another hole having at least one of a size and a
spaced interval different from those of the plurality of holes.
[0021] The second object of the present disclosure may be
accomplished by adjusting a total area occupied by holes per unit
area in each flexible portion.
[0022] The third object of the present disclosure may be
accomplished by a connecting portion having third holes formed
repeatedly between the first flexible portion and the second
flexible portion in parallel to the first and second holes.
[0023] A total area occupied by the third holes per unit area in
the connecting portion may be smaller than the total area occupied
by the first holes per unit area in the first flexible portion and
larger than the total area occupied by the second holes per unit
area in the second flexible portion.
[0024] A length of each of the third holes may be shorter than a
length of the first hole and longer than a length of the second
hole.
[0025] The length of each of the third holes may gradually decrease
from the first flexible portion toward the second flexible
portion.
[0026] The third holes may be arranged in a zigzag form while
partially overlapping each other along the lengthwise direction of
the flexible region, and wherein a length of each overlapped
portion of the third holes may be shorter than a length of each
overlapped portion of the first holes and longer than a length of
each overlapped portion of the second holes.
[0027] A length of each overlapped portion of the third holes may
gradually decrease from the first flexible portion toward the
second flexible portion.
[0028] The third object of the present disclosure may be
accomplished by a boundary portion having fourth holes formed
repeatedly between the second flexible portion and a rigid portion,
the rigid portion located on one side of the second flexible
portion.
[0029] A total area occupied by the fourth holes per unit area in
the boundary portion is smaller than the total area occupied by the
second holes per unit area in the second flexible portion.
[0030] A length of each of the fourth holes may be shorter than a
length of the second hole.
[0031] A length of a hole of the fourth holes, the hole adjacent to
the rigid portion, may be shorter than a length of another hole of
the fourth holes, the another hole adjacent to the second flexible
portion.
[0032] The fourth holes may be arranged in a zigzag form while
partially overlapping each other along the lengthwise direction of
the flexible region, wherein a length of each overlapped portion of
the fourth holes is shorter than a length of each overlapped
portion of the second holes.
[0033] In order to accomplish the fourth object of the present
disclosure, a flexible display unit of the present disclosure may
include a flexible display formed to be elastically deformed; and a
flexible frame coupled to a rear surface of the flexible display,
wherein the flexible frame includes a flexible portion in which
first holes are repeatedly formed to be bendable up to a state
having a maximum first curvature; and a rigid portion disposed on
at least one side of the flexible portion, and the flexible frame
is formed of a titanium material.
[0034] When the flexible display is deformed, an interval between
the first holes may be enlarged or reduced to apply a restoring
force to the flexible display.
[0035] An adhesive portion may be disposed between the flexible
display and the flexible frame, and a part of the adhesive portion
may be exposed rearward through the first holes.
[0036] In order to accomplish the fifth object of the present
disclosure, the flexible display unit of the present disclosure may
include an adhesive portion disposed on a rear surface of the
flexible display; and a silicon portion disposed between the
adhesive portion and the flexible frame, wherein the silicon
portion includes a first portion disposed on the flexible portion
and the rigid portion; and a second portion filled in the first
holes.
[0037] The second portion may form the same plane as the rear
surface of the flexible frame.
[0038] The silicon portion may be integrally formed with the
flexible frame by insert injection.
[0039] Alternatively, the flexible display unit of the present
disclosure may further include an adhesive portion disposed between
the flexible display and the flexible frame; and a silicon portion
filled in the first holes.
[0040] The silicon portion may be brought into contact with a part
of the adhesive portion exposed through the first holes.
[0041] The silicon portion may form the same plane as the rear
surface of the flexible frame.
[0042] The silicon portion may be integrally formed with the
flexible frame by insert injection.
[0043] On the other hand, the present disclosure may include a
flexible display formed to be elastically deformed; and a flexible
frame coupled to a rear surface of the flexible display, wherein
the flexible frame includes a first flexible portion in which first
holes are repeatedly formed to be bendable up to a state having a
maximum first curvature; a second flexible portion in which second
holes parallel to the first holes are repeatedly formed on one side
of the first flexible portion, and configured to be bendable up to
a state having a maximum second curvature; and a third flexible
portion in which third holes parallel to the first holes are
repeatedly formed on the other side of the first flexible portion,
and configured to be bendable up to a state having a maximum third
curvature; and wherein the first curvature is at least two times
the second and third curvatures.
[0044] Moreover, the present disclosure discloses a mobile
terminal, including a terminal body formed of an elastically
deformable material, a flexible display unit coupled to one surface
of the terminal body and configured to be elastically deformable
together with the terminal body; and magnet portions provided at
both ends of the terminal body disposed to face each other in a
state where the first to third flexible portions are bent at the
first to third curvatures, respectively, to exert attractive forces
on each other.
[0045] The effects of the present disclosure obtained through the
above-mentioned solution are as follows.
[0046] First, a total area occupied by the first holes per unit
area in the first flexible portion is designed to be larger than a
total area occupied by the second holes per unit area in the second
flexible portion, thereby implementing a flexible frame that is
bendable at a larger curvature in the first flexible portion than
the second flexible portion. Therefore, the flexible frame may be
laminated with a flexible display, thereby implementing a flexible
display unit in which two adjacent portions are bent at different
maximum curvatures.
[0047] Second, since a repulsive force to be restored increases as
increasing a degree of bending, and a total area occupied by the
holes per unit area in each flexible portion may be adjusted to
adjust a degree of bending and a repulsive force of the flexible
display unit.
[0048] Third, a connecting portion may be formed between two
flexible portions that is bendable at different maximum curvatures
or a boundary portion may be formed between a flexible portion and
a rigid portion, thereby implementing a flexible display unit in
which two adjacent portions having different curvatures are
connected smoothly.
[0049] Fourth, when titanium having a lower yield strength compared
to stainless steel but having a predetermined level of yield
strength and a large yield strain is used for a flexible frame, the
flexible display may be restored to a flat state all the time,
thereby preventing the phenomenon of undulating like a wave.
Therefore, the reliability of the flexible display unit can be
improved.
[0050] Fifth, since a silicon portion may be provided between the
flexible display and the flexible frame to elastically support the
flexible display, thereby absorbing an impact transmitted to the
flexible display at a predetermined level. Moreover, since the
silicon portion is filled in the holes of the flexible frame, a
restoring force of the silicon portion may be added to a restoring
force of the flexible frame itself, thereby increasing a total
restoring force.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0051] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a
further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and
constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of
the invention and together with the description serve to explain
the principles of the invention.
[0052] In the drawings:
[0053] FIG. 1 is a view showing an example of a flexible frame of
the present disclosure;
[0054] FIG. 2 is a conceptual view showing a state in which each
flexible portion of the flexible frame shown in FIG. 1 is bent at a
maximum curvature;
[0055] FIG. 3 is a conceptual view showing a Y direction area
change of the flexible frame shown in FIG. 1;
[0056] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a flexible region shown in
FIG. 1;
[0057] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a first flexible portion shown
in FIG. 4;
[0058] FIG. 6 is a conceptual view for explaining an X direction
arrangement form of holes applied to the first flexible portion
shown in FIG. 5;
[0059] FIG. 7 is a conceptual view for explaining an X direction
arrangement form of holes applied to the first flexible portion
shown in FIG. 5;
[0060] FIG. 8 is a conceptual view for explaining that the first
flexible portion shown in FIG. 5 can have a symmetrical shape with
respect to the X and Y axes;
[0061] FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a connecting portion shown in
FIG. 4;
[0062] FIG. 10 is a conceptual view showing an example of a
boundary portion shown in FIG. 4;
[0063] FIG. 11 is a conceptual view showing another example of a
boundary portion shown in FIG. 4;
[0064] FIG. 12 is a conceptual view showing an example of a
flexible display unit having a flexible frame according to the
present disclosure;
[0065] FIG. 13 is a conceptual view showing another example of a
flexible display unit having a flexible frame according to the
present disclosure;
[0066] FIG. 14 is a conceptual view showing still another example
of a flexible display unit having a flexible frame according to the
present disclosure;
[0067] FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram for explaining a restoring
mechanism of a flexible display unit by combining a flexible
display with a flexible frame according to the present
disclosure;
[0068] FIG. 16 is a conceptual view illustrating an example of a
mobile terminal to which a flexible display unit having the
flexible frame shown in FIG. 1 is applied;
[0069] FIG. 17 is a view showing another example of a flexible
frame of the present disclosure;
[0070] FIG. 18 is a conceptual view showing a state in which a
flexible portion of the flexible frame shown in FIG. 17 is bent at
a maximum curvature;
[0071] FIG. 19 is a conceptual view showing a Y direction area
change of the flexible frame shown in FIG. 17;
[0072] FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of a flexible region shown in
FIG. 17;
[0073] FIG. 21 is a conceptual view illustrating an example of a
mobile terminal to which a flexible display unit having the
flexible frame shown in FIG. 17 is applied;
[0074] FIG. 22 is a conceptual view showing an example of a mobile
terminal to which a flexible display unit having another example of
the flexible frame of the present disclosure is applied; and
[0075] FIG. 23 is a conceptual view showing still another example
of a flexible frame of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0076] Hereinafter, a flexible frame according to the present
invention and a flexible display unit having the same will be
described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0077] In describing the embodiments disclosed herein, moreover,
the detailed description will be omitted when a specific
description for publicly known technologies to which the invention
pertains is judged to obscure the gist of the present
invention.
[0078] The accompanying drawings are used to help easily understand
various technical features and it should be understood that the
embodiments presented herein are not limited by the accompanying
drawings. As such, the present disclosure should be construed to
extend to any alterations, equivalents and substitutes in addition
to those which are particularly set out in the accompanying
drawings.
[0079] In the following description, a singular representation may
include a plural representation as far as it represents a
definitely different meaning from the context.
[0080] FIG. 1 is a view showing an example of a flexible frame 100
of the present disclosure, and FIG. 2 is a conceptual view showing
a state in which each flexible portion of the flexible frame 100
shown in FIG. 1 is bent at a maximum curvature, and FIG. 3 is a
conceptual view showing a Y direction area change of the flexible
frame 100 shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a
flexible region 110 shown in FIG. 1.
[0081] In the following description, the X direction corresponds to
a widthwise direction of the flexible frame 100, and the Y
direction corresponds to a lengthwise direction of the flexible
frame 100.
[0082] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the flexible frame 100 includes
the flexible region 110 that is bendable at least at a maximum
curvature. The flexible region 110 may include flexible portions
that is bendable at different maximum curvatures. The flexible
portions may be sequentially disposed along one direction (Y
direction in the drawing) of the flexible frame 100, so that the
flexible frame 100 can be bent with respect to one direction.
[0083] In this example, the flexible region 110 includes a first
flexible portion 111 that is bendable up to a state having a
maximum first curvature and a second flexible portion 112 that is
bendable up to a state having a maximum second curvature. As shown
in the drawing, two second flexible portions 112 may be provided,
and disposed on both sides of the first flexible portion 111 in the
Y direction.
[0084] First holes 111' are repeatedly formed on the first flexible
portion 111 to implement the bending of the first flexible portion
111. In other words, flexibility may be generated on the first
flexible portion 111 due to the first holes 111', and the first
flexible portion 111 may be bent up to a state having the maximum
first curvature.
[0085] The first holes 111' are repeatedly formed along the X and Y
directions intersecting each other. The first holes 111' are
elongated in the X direction.
[0086] Similarly, second holes 112' are repeatedly formed on the
second flexible portion 112 to implement the bending of the second
flexible portion 112. In other words, flexibility may be generated
on the first flexible portion 112 due to the first holes 112', and
the first flexible portion 112 may be bent up to a state having the
maximum first curvature. Here, the second curvature has a curvature
different from the first curvature.
[0087] The second holes 112' are formed parallel to the first holes
111' so that the second flexible portion 112 can be bent with
respect to the Y direction together with the first flexible portion
111. The second holes 112' are respectively formed in a repetitive
manner along the X and Y directions intersecting each other. The
second holes 112' are extended in an elongated manner in the X
direction.
[0088] In this example, the first curvature is greater than the
second curvature. In other words, the first flexible portion 111 is
configured to be more bendable than the second flexible portion
112. Therefore, while the first and second flexible portions 111,
112 are bent at the first and second curvatures, respectively, a
repulsive force acting on the first flexible portion 111 is greater
than that acting on the second flexible portion 112.
[0089] In FIG. 2, it is shown that the first and second flexible
portions 111, 112 are bent to the maximum. Since the reciprocal of
the curvature is a curvature radius, a curvature radius (R1) of the
first flexible portion 111 is smaller than a curvature radius (R2)
of the second flexible portion 112 in this state. The center (O) of
the curvature radius (R1) of the first flexible portion 111 is
located in an inner space formed by the folding of the flexible
frame 100, and the center (O', O'') of the curvature radius of the
second flexible portion 112 is located in an outer space formed by
the folding of the flexible frame 100.
[0090] A rigid portion 120 is disposed on one side of each second
flexible portion 112 in the Y direction. The rigid portion 120, as
a portion that is hardly bent by an external force, may be formed
in a plane. The rigid portion 120 is not formed with holes intended
to implement bending.
[0091] As described above, the rigid portion 120 and the first
flexible portion 111 are disposed on both sides of the second
flexible portion 112 in the Y direction. In a state where the first
and second flexible portions 111, 112 are bent to the maximum, the
rigid portions 120 are arranged to face each other.
[0092] Referring to FIG. 3, the larger a total area occupied by the
holes per unit area (or a particular area) of the flexible portion,
the more flexible the flexible portion becomes. In other words, the
smaller a total area occupied by an inherently rigid material per
unit area of the flexible portion, the more flexible the flexible
portion becomes. It means that a maximum curvature of the flexible
portion can be adjusted by changing a total area occupied by the
holes per unit area of the flexible portion at design time.
[0093] In this manner, a total area occupied by the first holes
111' per unit area in the first flexible portion 111 is greater
than a total area occupied by the second flexible portions 111 per
unit area in the second flexible portion 111 so that the first
flexible portion 111 is more bendable than the second flexible
portion 112.
[0094] As described above, the second flexible portion 112 is
disposed on both sides of the first flexible portion 111,
respectively, in the Y direction, and the rigid portion 120 is
provided on one side of each second flexible portion 112 in the Y
direction.
[0095] A connecting portion 113 for smoothly connecting the first
flexible portion 111 and the second flexible portion 112 is formed
between the first flexible portion 111 and the second flexible
portion 112. Similarly, a boundary portion 114 for smoothly
connecting the first flexible portion 112 and the second flexible
portion 120 is formed between them.
[0096] In other words, the rigid portion 120, the boundary portion
114, the second flexible portion 112, the connecting portion 113,
the first flexible portion 111, the connecting portion 113, the
second flexible portion 112, the boundary portion 114, and the
rigid portion 120 are sequentially arranged on the flexible frame
100.
[0097] Hereinafter, each of the portions will be described in more
detail.
[0098] For reference, only the first flexible portion 111 and the
second flexible portion 112 are formed in such a manner that a
total area occupied by the first holes 111' per unit area is larger
than a total area occupied by the second holes 112', but there is
substantially no difference in the arrangement of the first hole
111' and the second hole 112'. Therefore, the description of the
first flexible portion 111 with reference to FIGS. 5 to 8 below may
be applied as it is to the second flexible portion 112 as it
is.
[0099] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the first flexible portion 111
shown in FIG. 4. Referring to FIG. 5, the first holes 111' formed
in the first flexible portion 111 are repeatedly formed along the X
and Y directions intersecting each other. The first holes 111'
formed in the first flexible portion 111 are formed in an elongated
manner in the X direction so that the first flexible portion 111 is
bendable with respect to the Y direction.
[0100] The first holes 111' may be formed in a recessed shape at
both end portions of the flexible frame 100 in the X direction. The
first holes 111' having such a shape may be formed one by one along
the Y direction.
[0101] The first holes 111' are arranged in a zigzag manner while
partially overlapping each other along the Y direction. As shown in
the drawing, the first holes 111' arranged along the X direction
are disposed directly in the Y direction above or below a region
between the first holes 111' arranged along the X direction (a
region where an inherent material of the rigid flexible frame 100
remains, hereinafter referred to as a "link").
[0102] As described above, the second holes 112' having the same
shape as the first holes 111' formed on the first flexible portion
111 may be also formed on the second flexible portion 112. However,
a length of a mutually overlapping portion between the second holes
112' is designed to be shorter than that of a mutually overlapping
portion between the first holes 111'.
[0103] A repulsive force per unit area of the link may be
calculated by the following equation.
T = .theta. GJ ' l ##EQU00001##
[0104] T=Repulsive force (Torque) (Nm)
[0105] l=Length (m) where holes are overlapped along the Y
direction
[0106] G=Modulus of rigidity (N/m2)
[0107] J'=Polar moment of inertia (m4)
[0108] .theta.=Bent angle per link (radians)
.theta. = .crclbar. ( Total ) n ##EQU00002##
[0109] n=Number of links formed along the Y direction
[0110] .THETA.(Total)=Angle bent to the maximum (radians)
[0111] In other words, as an overlapping length of the holes
increases along the Y direction, a repulsive force decreases, and
as a bent angle of per link increases, a repulsive force
increases.
[0112] As a result of the simulation, a bent angle per link in the
first flexible portion 111 is overwhelmingly larger than a bent
angle per link in the second flexible portion 112 (approximately 20
times), and thus it can be seen that a larger repulsive force acts
on the first flexible portion 111 though a length where the holes
are overlapped along the Y direction is shorter in the first
flexible portion 111.
[0113] On the other hand, since the links are arranged along the X
direction, the repulsive force increases in proportion to a number
of the arranged links. In this example, since the number of links
arranged in the X direction is the same for both the first flexible
portion 111 and the second flexible portion 112, it can be seen
that there is no great influence on the mutual comparison of the
repulsive forces is.
[0114] FIG. 6 is a conceptual view for explaining the X direction
arrangement of the first holes 111' applied to the first flexible
portion 111 shown in FIG. 5.
[0115] Referring to FIG. 6A, the first holes 111' may include a
plurality of holes 111'a arranged at preset intervals along the X
direction while having the same width (X direction).
[0116] As shown in the drawing, each of the plurality of holes
111'a may have a width (A) and may be spaced apart from each other
with a spacing interval (B) therebetween. As described above, the
plurality of holes 111'a may have a repeated shape according to a
constant reference (width and spacing interval).
[0117] In some embodiments, the flexible portions may include
perforations to allow for bending of the frame which do not
correspond to fully defined holes or openings. For example, a
perforation may correspond to a puncture in a particular pattern
where the material of the flexible frame is punctured or cut to
allow for flexing of the frame at the puncture or cut location. The
perforation may not correspond to any material removed from the
frame, and the material of the frame may be left attached where the
puncture or cut is located. Other embodiments may include a
combination of an opening or a hole where material of the frame is
actually removed (or formed to not include such portions) along
with a perforation or cut of the material adjacent to the opening
or hole. In other embodiments, an opening or hole may have a
concave portion, where the material of the frame juts into the
opening or hole area to define a "dent" in the opening or hole. It
will be appreciated that all of these various embodiments are
considered in this disclosure and may be combinable with any other
configuration discussed herein.
[0118] Referring to FIG. 6B, the first holes 111' may further
include a hole 111'b that is different in at least one of width and
spacing interval from the plurality of holes 111'a.
[0119] As shown in the drawing, at least one hole 111'b that is
different in at least one of width and spacing from the plurality
of holes 111'a may be added between the plurality of holes 111'a
having a width (A) and being spaced apart from each other with a
spacing interval (B) therebetween. The added hole 111'b has a width
(A'), and the width (A') has a value smaller or larger than the
width (A). Furthermore, a spacing interval (B') between the added
hole 111'b and one of the plurality of holes 111'a repeatedly
disposed adjacent thereto according to a predetermined reference
has a value smaller or larger than the spacing distance (B).
[0120] In this drawing, it is seen that a hole 111'b having a
left-right spacing interval (B') and a width (A') is added between
a plurality of holes 111'a repeatedly arranged according to a
predetermined reference. The left and right spacing intervals may
be of course set differently from each other.
[0121] By adding the holes described above, the maximum curvature
or repulsive force of the first flexible portion 111 may be
adjusted. For example, when the spacing interval (B') is increased
beyond the spacing interval (B) or the width (A') is reduced from
the width (A), the maximum curvature of the first flexible portion
111 may be reduced, and accordingly the repulsive force acting
thereon may be reduced. On the contrary, when the spacing interval
(B') is reduced from the spacing interval (B) or the width (A') is
increased beyond the width (A), the maximum curvature of the first
flexible portion 111 may be increased, and accordingly the
repulsive force acting thereon may be increased.
[0122] FIG. 7 is a conceptual view for explaining the Y direction
arrangement of the first holes 111' applied to the first flexible
portion 111 shown in FIG. 5.
[0123] Referring to FIG. 7A, the first holes 111' may include a
plurality of holes 111'c arranged at preset intervals along the Y
direction while having the same length (Y direction).
[0124] As shown in the drawing, each of the plurality of holes
111'c may have a length (C) and may be spaced apart from each other
with a spacing interval (D) therebetween. As described above, the
plurality of holes 111'c may have a repeated shape according to a
constant reference (length and spacing interval).
[0125] Referring to FIG. 7B, the first holes 111' may further
include a hole 111'd that is different in at least one of length
and spacing interval from the plurality of holes 111'c.
[0126] As shown in the drawing, a hole 111'd that is different in
at least one of length and spacing interval from the plurality of
holes 111'c may be added between the plurality of holes 111'c
having a length (C) and being spaced apart from each other with a
spacing interval (D) therebetween. The added hole 111'd has a
length (C') and the length C' has a value smaller or larger than
the length (C). Furthermore, a spacing interval (D') between the
added hole 111'd and one of the plurality of holes 111'c repeatedly
disposed adjacent thereto according to a predetermined reference
has a value smaller or larger than the spacing distance (D).
[0127] In this drawing, it is seen that a hole 111'd having a
left-right spacing interval (D') and a length (C') is added between
a plurality of holes 111'c repeatedly arranged according to a
predetermined reference. The left and right spacing intervals may
be of course set differently from each other.
[0128] By adding the holes described above, the maximum curvature
or repulsive force acting on the first flexible portion 111 may be
adjusted. For example, when the spacing interval (D') is increased
beyond the spacing interval (D) or the length (C') is reduced from
the length (C), the maximum curvature of the first flexible portion
111 may be reduced, and accordingly the repulsive force acting
thereon may be reduced. On the contrary, when the spacing interval
(D') is reduced from the spacing interval (D) or the length (C') is
increased beyond the length (C), the maximum curvature of the first
flexible portion 111 may be increased, and accordingly the
repulsive force acting thereon may be increased.
[0129] In summary, the first and second holes 111', 112' include a
plurality of holes arranged at the same size and at predetermined
intervals. Here, the same size denotes that the width (X direction)
and the length (Y direction) are the same. In some cases, a hole
that is different in at least one of size or spacing interval from
the plurality of holes may be added between the plurality of
holes.
[0130] FIG. 8 is a conceptual view for explaining that the first
flexible portion shown in FIG. 5 can have a symmetrical shape with
respect to the X and Y axes.
[0131] Referring to FIG. 8, the first flexible portion 111 may have
a symmetrical shape with respect to an axis (X-axis) in the X
direction passing through the center. Accordingly, in a state where
the first flexible portion 111 is bent with respect to the Y
direction, the first flexible portion 111 may have a symmetrical
shape about the X-axis.
[0132] Similarly, the first flexible portion 111 may have a
symmetrical shape with respect to an axis (Y-axis) in the Y
direction passing through the center. Accordingly, in a state where
the first flexible portion 111 is bent with respect to the Y
direction, the first flexible portion 111 may maintain a uniform
shape in the X direction.
[0133] When the first flexible portion 111 and the second flexible
portion 112 are formed successively as the first flexible portion
111 and the second flexible portion 112 are configured to be
bendable at different maximum curvatures, the flexible frame 100
may be damaged due to a change of curvature at the boundary.
Hereinafter, a structure in which adjacent first and second
flexible portions 111, 112 having different curvatures can be
smoothly connected will be described.
[0134] FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a connecting portion 113 shown
in FIG. 4.
[0135] Referring to FIG. 9, the connecting portion 113 for smoothly
connecting the first flexible portion 111 and the second flexible
portion 112 is formed between the first flexible portion 111 and
the second flexible portion 112. Third holes 113' parallel to the
first and second holes 111', 112' are repeatedly formed on the
connecting portion 113 so that the connecting portion 113 can be
bent in the Y direction. The first holes 113' are formed in an
elongated manner in the X direction.
[0136] A degree of bending of the connecting portion 113 may be
adjusted by changing a total area occupied by the third holes 113'
per unit area of the connecting portion 113 as described above with
respect to the first and second flexible portions 111, 112.
[0137] The connecting portion 113 is configured to be less bendable
than the first flexible portion 111 and more bendable than the
second flexible portion 112. To this end, a total area occupied by
the third holes 113' per unit area in the connecting portion 113 is
set to be smaller than a total area occupied by the first holes
111' per unit area in the first flexible portion 111, and larger
than a total area occupied by the second holes 112' per unit area
in the flexible portion 112.
[0138] For this purpose, a length of each of the third holes 113'
may be set to be smaller than that of the first holes 111' and
greater than that of the second holes 112'. Alternatively, a
spacing interval between the third holes 113' may be set to be
larger than that between the first holes 111' and smaller than that
between the second holes 112'.
[0139] The third holes 113' are arranged in a zigzag manner while
partially overlapping each other along the Y direction. As shown in
the drawing, the third holes 113' arranged along the X direction
are disposed in the Y direction directly above or below a region
between the third holes 113' arranged along the X direction (a
region where an inherent material of the rigid flexible frame 100
remains).
[0140] Here, a length of a mutually overlapping portion between the
third holes 113' along the Y direction is set to be smaller than
that of a mutually overlapping portion between the first holes 111'
and larger than that of a mutually overlapping portion between the
second holes 112'.
[0141] The connecting portion 113 may be configured such that a
degree of bending gradually decreases from the first flexible
portion 111 to the second flexible portion 112. In this case, a
maximum curvature at one end portion of the connecting portion 113
adjacent to the first flexible portion 111 may be set to be larger
than that at the other end portion of the connecting portion 113
adjacent to the second flexible portion 112. In other words, the
maximum curvature at one end portion of the connecting portion 113
may be set to be smaller than the first curvature, and the maximum
curvature at the other end portion of the connecting portion 113
may be set to be larger than the second curvature.
[0142] For this purpose, a length of each of the third holes 113'
may be set to gradually decrease from the first flexible portion
111 to the second flexible portion 112. Here, a degree of reduction
of the length of the third holes 113' may have a constant value
(a). Alternatively, an interval spaced between the third holes 113'
may be set to gradually increase from the first flexible portion
111 to the second flexible portion 112. Here, a degree of increase
in the spacing interval between the third holes 113' may have a
constant value.
[0143] Moreover, a length of a mutually overlapping portion between
the third holes 113' may be set to gradually decrease from the
first flexible portion 111 to the second flexible portion 112 in
the Y direction.
[0144] Similarly to the connecting portion 113 for smoothly
connecting the first flexible portion 111 and the second flexible
portion 112, a boundary portion 114 is provided even between the
second flexible portion 112 and the rigid portion 120. Hereinafter,
a structure in which adjacent second flexible portion 112 and rigid
portion 120 having different curvatures can be smoothly connected
will be described.
[0145] FIG. 10 is a conceptual view showing an example of the
boundary portion 114 shown in FIG. 4.
[0146] Referring to FIG. 10, the connecting portion 114 for
smoothly connecting the second flexible portion 112 and the rigid
portion 120 is formed between them. The fourth holes 114' are
repeatedly formed on the boundary portion 114 so that the boundary
portion 114 can be bent in the Y direction. The fourth holes 114'
may be extended in an elongated manner in the X direction and
disposed in parallel with the second holes 112'.
[0147] A degree of bending of the boundary portion 114 may be
adjusted by changing a total area occupied by the fourth holes 114'
per unit area of the boundary portion 114 as described above with
respect to the connecting portion 113.
[0148] The boundary portion 114 is configured to be less bendable
than second flexible portion 112. For this purpose, a total area
occupied by the fourth holes 114' per unit area in the boundary
portion 114 is set to be smaller than a total area occupied by the
second holes 112' per unit area in the second flexible portion
112.
[0149] For this purpose, a length of each of the fourth holes 114'
may be set to be smaller than that of the second holes 112'.
Alternatively, a spacing interval between the fourth holes 114' may
be set to be larger than that between the second holes 112'.
[0150] The fourth holes 114' may be arranged in a zigzag manner
while partially overlapping each other along the Y direction. As
shown in the drawing, the fourth holes 114' arranged along the X
direction are disposed in the Y direction directly above or below a
region between the fourth holes 114' arranged along the X direction
(a region where an inherent material of the rigid flexible frame
100 remains).
[0151] Here, a length of a mutually overlapping portion between the
fourth holes 114' along the Y direction is set to be smaller than
that of a mutually overlapping portion of the second holes
112'.
[0152] A maximum curvature at one end portion of the boundary
portion 114 adjacent to the second flexible portion 112 may be set
to be larger than that at the other end portion of the boundary
portion 114 adjacent to the rigid portion 120. In other words, the
maximum curvature at one end portion of the boundary portion 114
may be set to be smaller than the second curvature, and the maximum
curvature at the other end portion of the boundary portion 114 may
be set to be larger than zero.
[0153] For this purpose, a length of a hole adjacent to the second
flexible portion 112 among the fourth holes 114' may be set to be
larger than that of a hole adjacent to the rigid portion 120.
Alternatively, a spacing interval between the fourth holes 114' in
a portion adjacent to the second flexible portion 112 may be set to
be smaller than that between the fourth holes 114' in a portion
adjacent to the rigid portion 120.
[0154] FIG. 11 is a conceptual view showing another example of the
boundary portion 114 shown in FIG. 4.
[0155] Referring to FIG. 11, similarly to the previous example, the
fourth holes 214' are repeatedly formed on the boundary portion 214
so that the boundary portion 214 can be bent in the Y direction.
The fourth holes 214' may be extended in an elongated manner in the
X direction and disposed in parallel with the second holes
212'.
[0156] The boundary portion 214 is configured to be less bendable
than second flexible portion 212. For this purpose, a total area
occupied by the fourth holes 214' per unit area in the boundary
portion 214 is set to be smaller than a total area occupied by the
second holes 212' per unit area in the second flexible portion
212.
[0157] However, the fourth holes 214' for implementing this may be
randomly arranged. In other words, the fourth holes 214' may be
randomly arranged under the condition that a total area occupied by
the fourth holes 214' per unit area in the boundary section 214 is
set to be smaller than a total area occupied by the second holes
212' per unit area in the second flexible portion 212.
[0158] A maximum curvature at one end portion of the boundary
portion 214 adjacent to the second flexible portion 212 may be set
to be larger than that at the other end portion of the boundary
portion 214 adjacent to the rigid portion 220. In other words, the
maximum curvature at one end portion of the boundary portion 214
may be set to be smaller than the second curvature, and the maximum
curvature at the other end portion of the boundary portion 214 may
be set to be larger than zero.
[0159] For this purpose, a total area occupied by the fourth holes
214' per unit area at one end portion of the boundary portion 214
adjacent to the second flexible portion 212 may be set to be
greater than a total area occupied by the fourth holes 214' per
unit area at the other end portion of the boundary portion 214
adjacent to the rigid portion 220. In other words, a degree of
bending of the boundary portion 214 may be adjusted in such a
manner that a total area occupied by an inherent rigid material per
unit area of the boundary portion 214 is greater at one end portion
than at the other end portion of the boundary portion 214.
[0160] FIG. 12 is a conceptual view showing an example of a
flexible display unit 10 having the flexible frame 100 of the
present disclosure.
[0161] Referring to FIG. 12, the flexible display unit 10 is formed
in an elastically deformable manner, and includes a flexible
display 11 and the foregoing flexible frame 100.
[0162] The flexible display 11 is formed to be elastically
deformable by an external force. The flexible display 11 may be
configured to allow a touch input.
[0163] The flexible frame 100 is coupled to a rear surface of the
flexible display 11. The flexible display 11 is disposed to cover
the rigid portion 120 and the flexible region 110 of the flexible
frame 100. Therefore, when the flexible region 110 is bent, the
flexible display 11 is also bent, and when the flexible region 110
is restored, the flexible display 11 is also restored.
[0164] At least one or more flexible portions may be provided in
the flexible region 110. When a plurality of flexible portions are
provided, they may be configured to be bendable up to a state
having different maximum curvatures.
[0165] Various laminated structures may be applied to the flexible
display 11 and the flexible frame 100. For example, as shown in
FIG. 12, the flexible display 11 and the flexible frame 100 may be
coupled by a bonding portion 12 interposed therebetween. For the
bonding portion 12, an OCA (optically clear adhesive) may be used.
In the above structure, a part of the bonding portion 12 is exposed
through holes formed on the flexible portion in a rearward
direction, that is, onto a rear surface of the flexible frame
100.
[0166] According to the above structure, it is advantageous in that
a laminated structure of the flexible display 11 and the flexible
frame 100 may be implemented at a low cost, and a thickness of the
flexible display unit 10 can be made slim.
[0167] FIG. 13 is a conceptual view showing another example of a
flexible display unit 20 having the flexible frame 100 of the
present disclosure.
[0168] Referring to FIG. 13, a bonding portion 22 is attached to a
rear surface of the flexible display 21. For the bonding portion
22, an OCA (optically clear adhesive) may be used. Between the
bonding portion 22 and the flexible frame 100, a silicon portion 23
with an elastically deformable material is disposed. The silicon
portion 23 includes a first portion 23a disposed on the flexible
region 110 and the rigid portion 120 and a second portion 23b
filled between the holes 110'. Here, the first portion 23a and the
second portion 23b are integrally formed.
[0169] The first portion 23a of the silicon portion 23 is provided
between the flexible display 21 and the flexible frame 100 to
elastically support the flexible display 21. Therefore, an impact
transmitted to the flexible display 21 may be absorbed to a
determined level by the first portion 23a.
[0170] The second portion 23b is exposed through the holes 110' of
the flexible region 110 in a rearward region, that is, onto a rear
surface of the flexible frame 100. As shown in the drawing, the
second portion 23b may form the same plane as the rear surface of
the flexible frame 100.
[0171] The silicon portion 23 may be integrally formed with the
flexible frame 100 by insert injection. The silicon part 23 is
formed integrally with the flexible frame 100, thereby allowing the
silicon portion 23 to increase a restoring force of the flexible
frame 100 itself. In other words, in this laminated structure, a
restoring force of the flexible portion 100 acts on a restoring
force of the silicon portion 23 at the same time. Therefore, this
laminated structure has a larger restoring force compared to the
laminated structure shown in FIG. 12.
[0172] In addition, the silicon portion 23 is configured to prevent
the flexible frame 100 from being deformed by repeated bending.
Therefore, according to this laminated structure, the reliability
of the flexible frame 100 may be improved.
[0173] FIG. 14 is a conceptual view showing still another example
of a flexible display unit 30 having the flexible frame 100 of the
present disclosure.
[0174] Referring to FIG. 14, the flexible display 31 and the
flexible frame 100 may be coupled by a bonding portion 32
interposed therebetween. For the bonding portion 32, an OCA
(optically clear adhesive) may be used.
[0175] The holes 110' of the flexible region 110 are filled with a
silicon portion 33 with an elastically deformable material. As
shown in the drawing, the silicon portion 33 may be bought into
contact with a portion of the bonding portion 32 exposed through
the holes 110'. The silicon portion 33 may form the same plane as
the rear surface of the flexible frame 100.
[0176] The silicon portion 33 may be integrally formed with the
flexible frame 100 by insert injection. In other words, the silicon
portion 33 may be filled between the holes 110'.
[0177] The silicon part 33 is formed integrally with the flexible
frame 100, thereby allowing the silicon portion 33 to increase a
restoring force of the flexible frame 100 itself. In other words,
in this laminated structure, a restoring force of the flexible
portion 100 acts on a restoring force of the silicon portion 33 at
the same time. Therefore, this laminated structure has a larger
restoring force compared to the laminated structure shown in FIG.
12.
[0178] Moreover, this laminated structure has an advantage capable
of reducing a thickness of the silicon portion (the first portion
23a in FIG. 13) disposed on the flexible region 110 and the rigid
portion 120. Therefore, when the present flexible display unit 30
is designed to have the same height as that of the flexible display
unit 20 shown in FIG. 13, a thickness of the flexible frame 100 may
be made thicker. Therefore, the present laminated structure has an
advantage in that a yield strain of the flexible frame 100 compared
to the laminated structure shown in FIG. 13 can be increased.
[0179] For reference, the laminated structures illustrated in FIGS.
12 to 14 may be applicable not only to the flexible frame 100 shown
in FIG. 1 but also to various modified examples of the flexible
frame. For example, the present laminated structures may be
applicable to a flexible frame 400 (refer to FIG. 18) which will be
described later.
[0180] FIG. 15 is a conceptual view for explaining a restoring
mechanism of the flexible display unit 10 by the lamination of the
flexible frame 100 and the flexible display 11 of the present
disclosure.
[0181] In this drawing, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 11, the second
flexible portion 112 is formed on both sides of the first flexible
portion 111 to form the flexible region 110. The first flexible
portion 111 is configured to be bendable up to a state having a
maximum first curvature by the first holes 111' repeatedly formed,
and the second flexible portion 112 is configured to be bendable up
to a state having a maximum second curvature by the second holes
112' repeatedly formed. Here, the first curvature is set to be
larger than the second curvature. In other words, a first curvature
radius of the first flexible portion 111 is smaller than a second
curvature radius of the second flexible portion 112 in a state
where the first and second flexible portions 111, 112 are bent to
the maximum.
[0182] Referring to FIG. 15A, in a first state where no external
force is applied, a interval between the first holes 111' and an
interval between the second holes 112' are maintained constant in
an unchanged manner. In the first state, the flexible frame 100 is
disposed flat, and the flexible display 11 laminated therewith is
also disposed flat. In other words, in the first state, the
flexible display unit 10 is disposed flat.
[0183] Referring to FIG. 15B, a spacing interval between the first
and second holes 111', 112' is extended or reduced in a second
state in which the flexible display unit 10 is bent to the maximum
by an external force. The flexible frame 100 and the flexible
display 11 are laminated with each other and an entire length of
the flexible frame 100 is not changed, and thus when there is a
portion where a spacing interval between the holes is extended, a
portion where the spacing interval between the holes is reduced
occurs.
[0184] As a result, a restoring force is generated due to a
property that the first and second holes 111', 112', which are
extended or reduced, return to an original spacing interval in the
flexible frame 100. By the restoring force, the flexible display
unit 10 returns to the first state.
[0185] Specifically, a spacing interval between the first holes
111' formed on the first flexible portion 111 is increased, and a
restoring force for decreasing the spacing interval between the
first holes 111' is generated in the first flexible portion 111. A
spacing interval between the second holes 112' formed on the second
flexible portion 112 is decreased, and a restoring force for
increasing the spacing interval between the second holes 112' is
generated in the second flexible portion 112.
[0186] The flexible frame 100 is preferably configured to have
greater elasticity than the flexible display 11. According to this,
when the flexible frame 100 is bent, a restoring force of the
flexible display 11 itself is added to a restoring force of the
flexible frame 100, thereby improving a restoring force of the
flexible display unit 10.
[0187] On the other hand, the first curvature is preferably
designed to be twice or more the second curvature. In other words,
a second curvature radius of the second flexible portion 112 is
preferably designed to be twice or more than a first curvature
radius of the first flexible portion 111 in a state where the first
and second flexible portions 111, 112 are bent to the maximum.
[0188] Hereinafter, it will be described which material is suitable
for use in the flexible frame 100.
TABLE-US-00001 Yield Elastic Yield Type strength modulus strain
Thickness Beta Titanium 850 MPa 80 0.01063 0.3 mm Titanium Gr2 850
MPa 110 0.00773 0.3 mm STS 301 EH 1275 MPa 200 0.006375 0.3 mm
[0189] The above table shows a yield strength and a yield strain of
titanium and stainless steel.
[0190] The relationship between stress and strain seen in a
particular material may be represented by a stress-strain curve of
the material. The material has a unique stress-strain curve, where
the slope denotes a modulus of elasticity.
[0191] Yield strength refers to a force capable of withstanding
until a material is no longer restored when applying a force to the
material. Yield strain refers to a strain at yield strength.
Furthermore, an area under the stress-strain curve up to a yield
point denotes a restoring force. Therefore, it is seen that as the
area increases, a restoring force of the material increases.
[0192] In order to allow the flexible frame 100 to withstand
repeated bending and restoration, it is preferable that the
flexible frame 100 is made of a material having a predetermined
level of yield strength and a high yield strain and restoring
force.
[0193] As can be seen from the table, stainless steel has a high
yield strength but a small yield strain, and thus is not suitable
for being applied to the flexible frame 100 in which bending and
restoring are repeated. On the contrary, it can be seen that
titanium has a yield strength lower than that of stainless steel
but has a predetermined level of yield strength and a high yield
strain. Accordingly, when the flexible frame 100 is formed of a
titanium material, it may be bent without breakage, thereby
implementing a restorable characteristic.
[0194] Various titanium materials such as Beta Titanium and
Titanium Gr2 may be used to make the flexible frame 100. Titanium
Gr2 is a good choice when looking for relatively inexpensive
titanium with a high yield strength and restoring force compared to
stainless steel.
[0195] In addition, stainless steel is a ferromagnet, which can
affect surrounding electronic components, while titanium does not
have magnetic properties and thus is more suitable for use in an
electronic device such as mobile terminal 1000 in which electronic
components are integrated.
[0196] FIG. 16 is a conceptual view showing an example of a mobile
terminal 1000 to which the flexible display unit 10 having the
flexible frame 100 shown in FIG. 1 is applied.
[0197] Referring to FIG. 16, the mobile terminal 1000 includes a
first body 1100 and a second body 1200 that are configured to be
relatively movable. The first body 1100 and the second body 1200
may have the same size.
[0198] FIG. 16A shows a first state in which the first body 1100
and the second body 1200 are arranged in parallel, and FIG. 16B
shows a second state in which the second body 1200 is folded over
the first body 1100. The mobile terminal 1000 is configured to
freely modify its form from a first state to a second state, or
from a second state to a first state.
[0199] In order to implement this, the first body 1100 and the
second body 1200 may be respectively connected to the hinge
portion1300, and configured to be rotatable with respect to the
hinge portion 1300.
[0200] Referring to FIG. 16A, the flexible display unit 10 is
disposed on one surface of the first body 1100 and on one surface
of the second body 1200. In other words, the flexible display unit
10 is disposed over the first body 1100 and the second body 1200,
thereby implementing a large screen. The flexible display unit 10
is disposed to cover the hinge portion 1300.
[0201] The first flexible portion 111 of the flexible frame 100 is
disposed to cover the hinge portion 1300, and the second flexible
portion 112 is disposed to cover the end portions of the first body
1100 and the second body 1200. The first flexible portion 111 may
be formed in the middle portion of the flexible frame 100. The
rigid portion 120 is disposed to cover the first body 1100 and the
second body 1200 to support the flexible display 11 in a flat
state.
[0202] Referring to FIG. 16B, when the second body 1200 is folded
over the first body 1100, the flexible display unit 10 is bent by
an external force. The first flexible portion 111 is bent at a
first curvature, the second flexible portion 112 is bent at a
second curvature, and the rigid portions 120 are arranged to face
each other. Accordingly, the portions of the flexible display 11
supported by the rigid portion 120 are arranged to face each
other.
[0203] The center of a curvature radius of the first flexible
portion 111 is located in an inner space formed by the folding of
the flexible frame 100 and the center of a curvature radius of the
second flexible portion 112 is located in an outer space formed by
the folding of the flexible frame 100, and thus the flexible frame
100 is bent in a shape as shown in FIG. 16B. Considering such a
shape change, recessed spaces 1100', 1200' in which a part of the
flexible display unit 10 corresponding to the first and second
flexible portions 111, 112 can be received may be formed in the
first and second bodies 1100, 1200.
[0204] As shown in the drawing, the recessed spaces 1100', 1200'
may be configured to be blocked by mechanically interlocking the
first and second bodies 1100 and 1200 with the hinge portion 1300
in the first state shown in FIG. 16A. In other words, the recessed
spaces 1100', 1200' may be formed only in the second state shown in
FIG. 16B.
[0205] On the other hand, in the second state shown in FIG. 16B,
the first and second bodies 1100, 1200 are subjected to a force to
return to the first state shown in FIG. 16A by a restoring force of
the flexible display unit 10. Accordingly, in order to maintain the
second state shown in FIG. 16B, the first body 1100 and the second
body 1200 may be provided with magnet portions 1400', 1400 which
exert attractive forces on each other.
[0206] The magnet portions 1400', 1400' may be disposed at each end
portion of the first and second bodies 1100, 1200 to face each
other in a folded state. The attractive force exerted by the magnet
portions 1400', 1400 is set to be larger than a restoring force of
the flexible display unit 10. Therefore, the mobile terminal 1000
cannot return to the state of FIG. 16A only by a restoring force of
the flexible display unit 10.
[0207] However, when a force for moving the first body 1100 and the
second body 1200 away from each other is (instantaneously) applied,
and a sum force of the force and a restoring force of the flexible
display unit 10 is larger than an attractive force of the magnet
portions 1400' 1400, the mobile terminal 1000 can be returned to
the state of FIG. 16A only by the restoring force of the flexible
display unit 10 thereafter.
[0208] Hereinafter, various other examples will be described in
order to show that the flexible frame 100 can have various
forms.
[0209] FIG. 17 is a view showing another example of a flexible
frame 400 of the present disclosure, and FIG. 18 is a conceptual
view showing a state in which each flexible portion of the flexible
frame 400 shown in FIG. 17 is bent at a maximum curvature, and FIG.
19 is a conceptual view showing a Y direction area change of the
flexible frame 400 shown in FIG. 17, and FIG. 20 is an enlarged
view of a flexible region 410 shown in FIG. 17.
[0210] Referring to FIGS. 17 to 20, the flexible frame 400 includes
a flexible portion 411, a first rigid portion 420' and a second
rigid portion 420'' disposed on both sides of the flexible portion
411, a first boundary portion 412' disposed between the flexible
portion 411 and the first rigid portion 420' and a second boundary
portion 412'' disposed between the flexible portion 411 and the
second rigid portion 420''. Here, the flexible portion 411 and the
first and second boundary portions 412', 412'' form the flexible
region 410.
[0211] The flexible region 410 is configured to be bent with
respect to the Y direction. Here, the X direction corresponds to a
widthwise direction of the flexible frame 400, and the Y direction
corresponds to a lengthwise direction of the flexible frame
400.
[0212] The flexible portion 411 is configured to be bendable up to
a state having a maximum first curvature. First holes 411' are
repeatedly formed on the flexible portion 411 to implement the
bending of the flexible portion 411. In other words, flexibility
may be generated on the flexible portion 411 due to the first holes
411', and the flexible portion 411 may be bent up to a state having
the maximum first curvature.
[0213] The first holes 411' are repeatedly formed along the X and Y
directions intersecting each other. The first holes 411' are
extended in an elongated manner in the X direction.
[0214] First and second rigid portions 420', 420'' are respectively
disposed on both sides of the flexible portion 411 in the Y
direction. The first and second rigid pots 420', 420'' may be
formed in a plane that is hardly bent by an external force.
Intentional holes are not formed on the first and second rigid
portions 420', 420'' to implement bending. In a state where the
flexible portion 411 is bent to the maximum, the first and second
rigid portions 420', 420'' are arranged to face each other.
[0215] Between the flexible portion 411 and the first rigid portion
420', and between the flexible portion 411 and the second rigid
portion 420'', first and second boundary portions 412', 412'' for
smoothly connecting them are respectively formed. The second and
third holes 412', 412'' are formed on the first and second boundary
portions 412', 412'' so that the first and second boundary portions
412', 412'' are bendable with respect to the Y direction. The
second and third holes 412', 412'' may be extended in an elongated
manner in the X direction and disposed in parallel with the first
holes 411'.
[0216] A degree of bending of the first and second boundary
portions 412', 412'' may be achieved by changing a total area
occupied by the second and third holes 412', 412'' per unit area of
the first and second boundary portions 412', 412''.
[0217] The first and second boundary portions 412', 412'' are
configured to be less bendable than the flexible portions 411. For
this purpose, a total area occupied by the second and third holes
412', 412'' per unit area in the first and second boundary portion
412', 412'' is set to be smaller than a total area occupied by the
first holes 411' per unit area in the flexible portion 411.
[0218] For this purpose, a length of each of the second and third
holes 412', 412'' may be set to be smaller than that of the first
holes 411'. Alternatively, a spacing interval between the second
and third holes 412', 412'' may be set to be larger than that
between the first holes 411'.
[0219] The second and third holes 412', 412'' may be arranged in a
zigzag manner while partially overlapping each other along the Y
direction. As shown in the drawing, the second and third holes
412', 412'' arranged along the X direction are disposed in the Y
direction directly above or below a region between the second and
third holes 412', 412'' arranged along the X direction (a region
where an inherent material of the rigid flexible frame 400
remains).
[0220] Here, a length of a mutually overlapping portion between the
second and third holes 412', 412'' along the Y direction is set to
be smaller than that of a mutually overlapping portion of the first
holes 411'.
[0221] A maximum curvature at one end portion of the first and
second boundary portions 412', 412'' adjacent to the flexible
portion 411 may be set to be greater than a maximum curvature at
the other end portion of the first and second bound portions 412',
412'' adjacent to the first and second rigid portions 420', 420''.
In other words, the maximum curvature at one end portion of the
first and second boundary portions 412', 412'' may be set to be
smaller than the first curvature, and the maximum curvature at the
other end portion of the first and second boundary portions 412',
412'' may be set to be greater than zero.
[0222] To this end, a length of a hole adjacent to the flexible
portion 411 of among the second and third holes 412', 412'' may be
set to be larger than that of a hole adjacent to the first and
second rigid portions 420', 420''. Alternatively, a spacing
interval between the second and third holes 412', 412'' at a
portion adjacent to the flexible portion 411 may be set to be
smaller than that between the second and third holes 412', 412'' at
a portion adjacent to the first and second rigid portions 420',
420''.
[0223] Alternatively, the second and third holes 412', 412'' may be
randomly arranged under the condition that a total area occupied by
the second and third holes 412', 412'' per unit area in the first
and second boundary portions 412', 412'' is set to be smaller than
a total area occupied by the first holes 411' per unit area in the
flexible portion 411.
[0224] FIG. 18 shows a view in which the flexible portion 411 is
bent to the maximum. As shown in the drawing, the center of a
curvature radius of the flexible portion 411 is located in an inner
space formed by the folding of the flexible frame 400.
[0225] FIG. 21 is a conceptual view showing an example of a mobile
terminal 2000 to which the flexible display unit 40 having the
flexible frame 400 shown in FIG. 17 is applied.
[0226] The flexible display unit 40 is formed in an elastically
deformable manner, and includes a flexible display 41 and the
foregoing flexible frame 400. The flexible display 41 and the
flexible frame 400 may be coupled to each other by a laminated
structure described above in FIGS. 12 to 14.
[0227] FIG. 21A shows a first state in which the flexible display
unit 40 is folded flat on one surface of the terminal body 2100,
and FIG. 21B shows a second state in which the flexible display
unit 40 is folded so that part thereof is disposed on the other
surface of the terminal body 2100. The flexible display unit 40 is
configured to freely modify its form from a first state to a second
state, or from a second state to a first state.
[0228] In order to implement this, the first rigid portion 420' is
configured to be attached onto one surface of the terminal body
2100, and the first boundary portion 412', the flexible portion
411, the second boundary portion 412'', and the second rigid
portion 420'' are configured to be detachable from the terminal
body 2100.
[0229] A round portion 2100' is formed at one end portion of the
terminal body 2100 to guide the modification of its shape such that
the first boundary portion 412', the flexible portion 411 and the
second boundary portion 412'' can be bent in a corresponding manner
to the round portion 2100'. A degree of bending, namely, a
curvature, of the round portion 2100', is preferably set to be
equal to or smaller than a first curvature which is the maximum
curvature at which the flexible portion 411 can be bent.
[0230] When the first boundary portion 412', the flexible portion
411 and the second boundary portion 412'' are bent in a
corresponding manner to the round portion 2100', the second rigid
portion 420'' is disposed to cover the other surface of the
terminal body 2100. A recess portion 2100'' capable of
accommodating a portion of the flexible display unit 40
corresponding to the second rigid portion 420'' may be formed on
the other surface of the terminal body 2100. In a state where a
portion of the flexible display unit 10 corresponding to the second
rigid portion 120 is accommodated in the recess portion 2100'', an
upper surface of the one portion may form the same plane as the
other surface of the terminal body 2100.
[0231] On the other hand, in the second state shown in FIG. 21B,
the flexible display unit 40 is subjected to a force of returning
to the first state shown in FIG. 21A by a restoring force of the
flexible frame 400. Accordingly, in order to maintain the second
state shown in FIG. 21B, one end portion of the flexible display
unit 40 and the terminal body 2100 may be provided with magnet
portions 42, 2200 which exert attractive forces on each other.
[0232] The magnet portions 42, 2200 are provided on the other side
of the second rigid portion 420' and the terminal body 2100 so that
the flexible display unit 40 can be dispose to face each other in a
folded state. The attractive force exerted by the magnet portions
42, 2200 is set to be larger than a restoring force of the flexible
display unit 40. Therefore, the flexible display unit 40 cannot
return to the state of FIG. 21A only by a restoring force of the
flexible display unit 40.
[0233] However, when a force for detaching the second rigid portion
420'' from the other side of the terminal body is (instantaneously)
applied by a user, and a sum force of the force and a restoring
force of the flexible display unit 40 is larger than an attractive
force due to the magnet portions 42, 2200, the flexible display
unit 40 can be returned to the state of FIG. 21A only by the
restoring force of the flexible display unit 40 thereafter.
[0234] FIG. 22 is a conceptual view showing an example of a mobile
terminal 3000 to which a flexible display unit 50 having another
example of the flexible frame 500 of the present disclosure is
applied.
[0235] Referring to FIG. 22A, the flexible frame 500 of the present
example may be provided with two flexible regions 510', 510''. The
flexible region 510' at an upper portion of the drawing is the same
as a structure of the flexible frame 100 shown above in FIG. 1, and
the flexible region 510'' at a lower portion of the drawing is the
same as a structure of the flexible frame 400 shown above in FIG.
17. Therefore, the description of the structure of the flexible
frame 500 will be substituted by the earlier description.
[0236] Referring to FIG. 22B, a mobile terminal 3000 includes a
first body 3100, a second body 3200 and a third body 3300 which are
configured to be relatively movable. The first body 3100, the
second body 3200, and the third body 3300 may have the same
size.
[0237] In a first state in which the first body 3100, the second
body 3200 and the third body 3300 are unfolded flat, the flexible
display unit 50 are disposed over the first body 3100, the second
body 3200, and the third body 3300 to constitute a large
screen.
[0238] In a second state in which the first body 3100, the second
body 3200 and the third body 3300 are sequentially folded as shown
in FIG. 22B, the flexible display unit 50 is also folded in a
corresponding manner thereto.
[0239] The mobile terminal 3000 is configured to freely modify its
form from a first state to a second state, or from a second state
to a first state.
[0240] In order to achieve this, the first body 3100 and the second
body 3200 may be respectively connected to a first hinge portion
3000' to be rotatable with respect to the first hinge portion
3000', and the second body 3200 and the third body 3300 may be
respectively connected to a second hinge portion 3000'' to be
rotatable with respect to the second hinge portion 3000''.
[0241] The description of each structure will be substituted by the
earlier description of FIGS. 16 and 21.
[0242] FIG. 23 is a conceptual view showing still another example
of the flexible frame 600 of the present disclosure.
[0243] Referring to FIG. 23, at least one or more flexible portions
611, 612, 613, 614, 615 may be provided in the flexible frame 600.
Here, the flexible portions 611, 612, 613, 614, 615 may have an
asymmetric shape.
[0244] In other words, in FIG. 1, the second flexible portions 112
having the same maximum curvature are formed to have the same
length on both sides of the first flexible portion 111 to have a
shape symmetrical with respect to the center of the first flexible
portion 111, but a shape of the flexible frame 100 is not limited
to such a symmetric shape.
[0245] A degree to which each of the plurality of flexible portions
611, 612, 613, 614, 615 is bendable to the maximum, namely, a
maximum curvature, may be designed to have a different value.
Furthermore, the lengths of the plurality of flexible portions 611,
612, 613, 614, 615 may be designed to be different.
[0246] In this drawing, it is shown that five flexible portions
611, 612, 613, 614, 615 are designed to have different maximum
curvatures, and their lengths are also set to be different.
* * * * *